MUSIC AND THE 21^ST CENTURY VETERAN​

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Out of the 1.7 million troops deployed to conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq, the largest population has been those under 29 years of age, making them part of a generation group known as the Millennials.   According to surveys, the Millennials say that their generation is uniquely defined in history by their use of technology and their music. They have grown up using computers and watching MTV.

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Technology and music have also impacted the 21^st century deployment experiences.  Troops have brought portable audio devices with them, such as laptop computers, iPods, mp3 players, and CD players.  Military audio and communication systems have been rigged to become improvised sound systems. Recording equipment and electronic musical instruments are not uncommon.

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Music is being used as an inspiration for combat, accompanying troops while on patrols and missions or getting “pumped up” beforehand. Original music is being composed and recorded to express emotions such as grief over the loss of a comrade or to describe the realities of combat and daily experiences as a soldier.  Music is used as an aid to sleep, to cover up sounds from the environment.  Playing or singing music serves as a release for stress and anxiety.